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Istanbul cautions of severe cold as snowfall, winds sweep across city

An individual throws food to seagulls during a snowfall near the Bosphorus in Istanbul. (Adobe Stock Photo)
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An individual throws food to seagulls during a snowfall near the Bosphorus in Istanbul. (Adobe Stock Photo)
January 12, 2026 10:06 PM GMT+03:00

The Istanbul Governor’s Office issued a fresh weather warning on Monday as the city remains gripped by harsh winter conditions, including below-average temperatures, intermittent snowfall, and strong northeasterly winds.

Strong winds and heavy rainfall swept through Istanbul over the weekend, turning into sleet by Sunday and developing into snowfall by Monday morning. Forecasts indicate that the wintry conditions will persist this week, as daytime temperatures across the city are expected to stay between 2°C and 5°C (35.6°F to 41°F), below seasonal norms.

Gusts expected to reach 60 km/h across Istanbul

The Governor’s Office stated that wind speeds could intensify, reaching between 40 and 60 kilometers per hour, particularly from the north and northeast. These strong gusts may cause falling trees and poles, roof damage, and other safety hazards.

Residents have been urged to remain cautious and take precautions against icy roads and weather-related disruptions. The Governor’s Office also warned of potential delays in transportation and slippery surfaces due to snowfall and freezing temperatures.

A cat is seen during snowfall at the Camlica Hill and its surroundings as the cold weather continues in Istanbul, Turkiye, January 12, 2026. (AA Photo)
A cat is seen during snowfall at the Camlica Hill and its surroundings as the cold weather continues in Istanbul, Turkiye, January 12, 2026. (AA Photo)

Snow to rain by midweek as temperatures slowly climb

While snowfall is forecast to continue on Tuesday, a gradual warming trend is expected. On Wednesday, January 14, precipitation is expected to shift from snow to rain, with daytime highs reaching up to 10°C. By Thursday and Friday, temperatures may climb further, with highs around 12°C under partly cloudy skies.

The weekly forecast shows that Tuesday, January 13, will be mostly cloudy with intermittent snow and temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C. On Wednesday, January 14, the city is expected to see mostly cloudy skies with intermittent rain, with temperatures between 3°C and 10°C.

Conditions will improve by Thursday and Friday, January 15 and 16, with partly cloudy skies and daytime temperatures rising to between 8°C and 12°C on Thursday, and 7°C to 12°C on Friday.

January 12, 2026 10:06 PM GMT+03:00
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